Providing Early Intervention Services in Integrated Environments

Abstract

This paper briefly reviews accomplishments that have taken place during the past decade relative to integration of young children with disabilities and their nondisabled peers. Challenges for the future and the opportunities that accompany these challenges are discussed. It is suggested that the traditional concept of least restrictive environment as a continuum of placements be replaced by a concept of integration opportunities to be determined by individual child needs, family needs, and community resources. For infants and toddlers, it is suggested that a broad-based view of integration focus on integration of the child into the family and integration of the child and family into the community. Finally, the need to work toward the establishment of integrated service delivery systems through extensive personnel training and coordination of services is stressed.